Written by Dr. Bharat Pothuri, MD, FACG

4 Digestive Causes of Abdominal Pain:

What Houston Residents Need to Know

Abdominal pain can hit anyone, anytime. Whether you’re grabbing tacos in Montrose or having dinner in The Heights, stomach pain can ruin your plans. At Gastrodoxs, we believe that knowing what causes pain helps you feel better, faster.
In this guide, Dr. Bharat Pothuri shares the top 4 digestive causes of abdominal pain. We’ll explain them in plain language, list warning signs, and offer ways to get relief. Let’s dive in!

Quote from Dr. Bharat Pothuri "Abdominal pain is one of the most common reasons patients visit my Houston clinic," says Dr. Pothuri. "Finding the root cause—like GERD or gallstones—helps us treat it faster."

Section 1: Understanding Digestive Abdominal Pain

Where It Hurts Matters

• Upper abdomen (under ribs): stomach, gallbladder, pancreas
• Lower abdomen: intestines or colon
• General pain: could be gas, indigestion, or a stomach virus

How It Feels

• Sharp or stabbing
• Dull or achy
• Cramping
• Burning

When to Call a Doctor Right Away

• Severe, constant pain
• Fever over 101 degree F
• Blood in vomit or stool
• Sudden weight loss

Section 2: Cause #1 – Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

What Is IBS?

IBS is a long-term condition affecting the large intestine. It causes cramping, gas, bloating, and changes in bowel habits.

Symptoms

• Crampy pain in the lower belly
• Bloating after eating
• Diarrhea or constipation (or both)
• Mucus in stool

Why It Happens

• Food sensitivities
• Stress or anxiety
• Gut-brain connection problems

Dr. Pothuri’s Tip:
"Try a food diary. Many of my Houston patients learn that dairy or greasy foods trigger symptoms."

Simple Ways to Feel Better

• Eat small, frequent meals
• Limit gassy foods like beans and cabbage
• Try fiber supplements (like psyllium)
• Relax with deep breathing or yoga

Section 3: Cause #2 – Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

What Is GERD?

GERD happens when stomach acid flows into the esophagus. It causes heartburn and other symptoms.

Symptoms

• Burning feeling behind the chest
• Sour taste or food coming up
• Sore throat or hoarseness
• Worse when lying down

Why It Happens

• Weak lower esophageal sphincter
• Being overweight or eating poorly
• Smoking or drinking alcohol

Dr. Pothuri’s Tip:
"Spicy foods are tasty, but they can make GERD worse. Be mindful at Houston’s hot food spots."

Ways to Find Relief

• Avoid trigger foods: citrus, tomatoes, chocolate, mint
• Don’t eat 2–3 hours before bed
• Raise your bed head by 6–8 inches
• Try antacids or H2 blockers

Section 4: Cause #3 – Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD)

What Is It?

A peptic ulcer is a sore in the stomach or upper intestine. It causes a burning feeling, especially between meals.

Symptoms

• Dull or burning pain at night or when hungry
• Nausea or vomiting
• Feeling full quickly
• Bleeding (in severe cases)

Why It Happens

• H. pylori infection
• Taking NSAIDs like ibuprofen for too long
• Smoking or heavy alcohol use

Dr. Pothuri’s Tip:
"H. pylori is easy to detect. A breath test often confirms it."

Treatment Tips

• If positive for H. pylori, follow your doctor’s antibiotic plan
• Avoid NSAIDs or talk to your doctor about safer options
• Cut back on coffee and spicy food

External Link
NIH on Peptic Ulcers

Section 5: Cause #4 – Gallstones

What Are Gallstones?

Gallstones are hard clumps that form in your gallbladder. They can block bile flow and cause pain.

Symptoms

• Sharp pain in the upper right belly
• Pain spreading to the back or shoulder
• Nausea or vomiting after fatty meals
• Yellow skin or eyes (jaundice)

Why It Happens

• Too much cholesterol or bilirubin in bile
• Gallbladder doesn’t empty fully
• Risks: obesity, rapid weight loss, fatty diet

Dr. Pothuri’s Tip:
"Houston summers can lead to dehydration, which thickens bile and raises gallstone risk."

How to Feel Better

• Choose lean meats and vegetables
• Drink plenty of water, especially in summer
• If pain keeps coming back, see a specialist

Section 6: Quick Comparison Table

Section 7: Healthy Habits for Prevention

Eat a Balanced Diet

• Choose lean proteins, fruits, veggies, whole grains
• Skip fried and processed foods

Watch Portion Sizes

• Use smaller plates
• Eat slowly and chew well

Stay Hydrated

• Drink 8–10 cups of water daily
• Limit alcohol and caffeine

Manage Stress

• Practice meditation or deep breathing
• Stay active with walking or yoga

See Your Doctor

• Get a yearly checkup
• Tell your doctor about any stomach pain

Section 8: When to See a Doctor

• Pain for more than one week
• Fever over 101 degree F
• Blood in stool or vomit
• Weight loss without trying
• Pain that wakes you at night

Conclusion

Abdominal pain is common, but knowing the cause helps you find relief. The top 4 digestive causes in Houston are IBS, GERD, peptic ulcers, and gallstones. With simple changes and medical care, you can take control of your gut health. For more help, visit Gastrodoxs and explore our wellness resources.

About the Author

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.